Dear Forum,
How do you protect your host file?
Do you use MVPS hosts file?
I would appreciate any suggestions!
Best wishes,
Avastfan1
WinPatrol 
- See my sig.
- No.
Thanks for the replies.
Asyn: Where in your signature is the host protection software/programme?
Well, all listed programs work together (layered)…
But you have no specific programme or software dedicated to protecting the host file?
No, why should I…??
Or just right click the file and set as read only
Whoa! I downloaded Hostman and chose to update ‘MVPS’ and ‘hphosts’.
Big mistake.
Host file grew to around 5.7 megabytes, and my computer slowed to a crawl 
I’ve never tried Hostman so can’t verify your problems with it.
My method:
I download the MVPS HOSTS file directly, edit it with a text editor to include my own custom blocks, and save it to the proper location. Then I set the attribute to Read Only in properties. I believe that’s sufficient protection. I’ve never had a problem.
Spywareblaster has a section under tools called Hosts Safe. This makes an encrypted backup of the hosts file that can be restored if there’s a problem.
@Avastfan1: As you’re using ABP - You can also subscribe to Malware Domains.
http://adblockplus.org/en/subscriptions
Thank you all again for the useful tips.
I also downloaded MVPS and copied it manually to the host file. PC seems to run fine with it.
@Asyn: I currently subscribe to EasyList. I will have a look at Malware Domains. Nice one.
You’re welcome…!
Subscribed to it. Have to see whether there is a noticeable slowdown in web speed.
I can answer that for you: No.
How do you protect your host file? ZA Free
Do you use MVPS hosts file? No.
No need for the MSVP host file with IE9, just set host file to read only - job done with no extraneous junk
No need for the MSVP host file at all, imo.
Yeah i agree with Asyn, just use Adblock Plus(for you FF users) with EasyList and Malware Domains lists. Personally i also subscribe to EasyPrivacy list.
Did not see anyone else mention this, i guess no one uses this but i have been using it for quite a while now and i am very satisfied with this service.